Buenas tardes! If you’re looking to expand your Spanish vocabulary, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will explore the various ways to say “outside” in Mexican Spanish, including both formal and informal expressions. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Outside”
When speaking in a formal context, such as in business meetings, presentations, or with people you are less acquainted with, you can use the following phrases to refer to “outside” in Mexican Spanish:
1. Exterior: This is a very straightforward and polite way to say “outside.” It is commonly used in formal situations and is understood throughout Mexico, regardless of regional variations. Example: “El evento se llevará a cabo en el exterior del edificio” (The event will take place outside the building).
2. Al exterior: Similar to “exterior,” this phrase can be used interchangeably in formal settings. Example: “Por favor, espéreme al exterior de la oficina” (Please wait for me outside the office).
2. Informal Ways to Say “Outside”
Now, let’s explore some more casual expressions to say “outside” in Mexican Spanish, which are commonly used among friends, family, or in informal situations:
1. Afuera: This is the most common and widely used term for “outside” in Mexican Spanish. It is understood throughout the country, and you’ll hear it in both formal and informal contexts. Example: “¡Vamos afuera a jugar fútbol!” (Let’s go outside to play soccer!)
2. Al aire libre: This phrase directly translates to “out in the open” or “in the fresh air.” It is often used when referring to outdoor activities or events. Example: “Me gusta hacer ejercicio al aire libre” (I enjoy exercising outside).
3. Regional Variations
While the previous expressions are universally understood across Mexico, it’s worth mentioning that some regional variations exist. These are not necessary to know for general conversation, but understanding them can enrich your Spanish language skills.
1. Fuera: In certain regions of Mexico, such as the northern states, you may come across “fuera” to mean “outside.” Example: “No olvides traer el abrigo, hace mucho frío fuera” (Don’t forget to bring your coat; it’s really cold outside).
2. A la calle: In some parts of Mexico, particularly in Mexico City, people may use the expression “a la calle” to refer to “outside.” Example: “Voy a sacar al perro a la calle” (I am going to take the dog outside).
4. Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you master the usage of “outside” in Mexican Spanish:
- Use gestures: When communicating with native speakers, don’t hesitate to use hand gestures to reinforce your meaning. Pointing towards the outdoor area can help clarify your message.
- Practice pronunciation: Pay attention to the pronunciation of words like “afuera” and “exterior” to ensure clarity. Practice saying these words aloud to improve your Spanish accent.
- Context matters: Consider the context of your conversation before using a specific term. Formal situations often call for more polite expressions, while informal settings provide more flexibility.
Remember, language is a dynamic art, and variations may exist from one region to another. Therefore, embracing these regional differences can deepen your understanding of Mexican Spanish and enhance your overall experience while communicating with locals.
¡Felicidades! You’ve reached the end of this guide on how to say “outside” in Mexican Spanish. Now, go out and practice your new vocabulary! ¡Buena suerte y disfruta del aprendizaje! (Good luck and enjoy learning!)
